title: Innovation and evaluation.
abstract: Social, medical, and technological innovations are discussed, first with reference to historical examples and then with modern studies. I show the need for evaluating both the innovations themselves and the research processes leading to them. I suggest some kinds of research that need to be carried out if we are to continue to have a vigorous program of scientific and technological innovation. Finally, I explain the new initiative by the AAAS in science and engineering education.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004059:Diffusion of Innovation; D013502:General Surgery / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D012106:Research / Q000592:standards*; D012306:Risk; D013672:Technology / Q000191:economics / Q000592:standards